Media releases

Gippsland residents are invited to join Federation University Australia students and staff in a new choir that aims to bring the community together. 

Federation University and AGL Loy Yang have partnered to establish the Word of Mouth Chorus in Gippsland.  

Rehearsals for the choir will be held online via Zoom, with physical rehearsals to be introduced when COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. 

The choir will perform at community events throughout the year when restrictions are eased.  

An online element will remain to ensure the choir is accessible to community members or others interested in participating. 

Musical Director Dave Barclay will lead the choir, which will sing arrangements of existing songs and new material. 

Rehearsals will be held weekly. Participate via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/events/3069740786435792/) or Zoom (https://federation-edu-au.zoom.us/j/95305667322) 

All ages and skill levels are welcome and there is no audition process. 

Quotes attributable to Word of Mouth Chorus coordinator, Federation University Associate Professor Rick Chew: 

“I believe a community that sings together, stays together. The Word of Mouth Chorus is a way for people to stay connected and creative during times of physical distancing.” 

“You don’t have to read music or necessarily think of yourself as a singer, the choir is open to everyone.” 

Quotes attributable to AGL Loy Yang General Manager Nigel Browne: 

“From all of us at AGL Loy Yang, we are proud to support the Word of Mouth Chorus, especially during these challenging times.” 

“This choir provides an ideal opportunity to not only celebrate the power of voice but connect with each other, which is more important now than ever. We can’t wait to see the Word of Mouth Chorus in action.”